Cabin options near Onaway, Michigan range from rustic sites with basic amenities to more developed accommodations with modern features. Situated in the northeastern Lower Peninsula, this area has a humid continental climate with warm summers averaging 75°F and cold winters dropping below 15°F. Many cabin rentals provide access to the region's extensive waterways including Black Lake, Mullett Lake, and Lake Huron.
What to do
Hiking trails: Onaway State Park features a network of trails through diverse forest terrain. "There is a trail network that cuts through the forest of the campground, which is a nice plus and rests peacefully on the shores of Black Lake. There is a wide variety of tree species throughout the campsite, which is nice, including these towering conifers," notes one visitor to Onaway State Park Campground.
Fall color viewing: The Onaway region offers exceptional autumn foliage displays typically peaking mid-October. A camper recommends, "I would definitely recommend this place, especially in the fall because the trees changing colors really adds a nice element to this campground."
Petoskey stone hunting: Search Lake Michigan's shoreline for the state's famous fossilized coral. At Petoskey State Park Campground, "The beach is really nice and looks like the ocean. The water is very clear and has lots of small colorful pebbles and Petoskey rocks. We enjoyed walking up and down the beach looking for these fossils."
What campers like
Lake access: Many cabin accommodations provide direct water access for recreation. At Aloha State Park Campground, "The lake is easily accessible and wonderful. There are 3 different sections, the first 2 being older with mostly 'no camping pad' electric sites, and the 3rd is newer with gravel full hookup sites."
Privacy between sites: Certain cabins and camping areas offer better separation. "My favorite feature though was PRIVACY, each site was surrounded by trees to separate you from possible neighbors," notes a visitor to Twin Lakes State Forest Campground.
Clean facilities: Most parks maintain well-kept amenities. One camper at Hoeft State Park Campground reports, "The site we had (54) was a perfect combo of sun and shade. The park itself is clean and park personnel very upbeat and helpful."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Advance booking is essential for cabins, especially during summer. At Cheboygan State Park Campground, multiple cabin options require different planning: "We have been going yearly to the cabins in Cheboygan State Park for many years and have stayed at each cabin they offer. All of them are great, vault toilet and hand pump for water, drive up (although the road in can be a little rough)."
Seasonal considerations: Water access may change throughout the year. "Onaway SP is a quiet little park with electric pedestal at each sight. Sanitation/dump station has water to fill your fresh water tank for your visit. Water is shut off Oct 10 for season," reports a fall visitor.
Site variations: Cabin accommodations vary significantly across locations. "Some have better beach access then others, 2 of them have firepits on the beach to enjoy the amazing sunsets."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play equipment for children. One camper at Indian River RV Resort notes, "Very kid-friendly, including a large playground, a large heated swimming pool, plus volleyball, horseshoes, corn hole, basketball and pickleball courts."
Beach activities: Swimming areas provide recreation for all ages. "The campsite also features a really nice beach, with a community campfire area, and good showers," according to an Indian River RV Resort visitor.
Organized activities: Some parks schedule special events. "There are kayak rentals, a boat launch, and activities that the host organizes," writes a camper, making these locations ideal for families seeking structured recreation.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Consider space requirements for larger rigs. "The sites are close together. Very kid friendly, not a ton of hiking trails right off campground but clean restrooms and beautiful area to stay," reports one RVer.
Hookup availability: Electric service is standard at most cabin sites, but full hookups vary. "Camp is quite a ways off the road. It's nicely wooded with large trees. Most of the spots are paved for the RV to sit on some have concrete. The spots are really wide, like really wide! But not very deep."
Off-season advantages: Booking cabin accommodations during shoulder seasons provides better availability. "Perfect getaway. Great sites with a strip of sites directly on the water," notes one camper who visited in October when crowds are typically smaller.
